The current economic crisis has lead to a sharp downturn in home sales figures. Because foreclosures are rising and markets are failing, it is a very competitive time to sell your home. Still, selling your Maui home can be a very exciting time in your life as it is obviously associated with new beginnings. As such, you want to improve your odds for selling your home as much as possible and to do this you must make a good first impression on your real estate agent as well as potential buyers. The following are some tips that will allow you to make that good impression and not only help you sell your home quickly but will also increase its market value.
1. De-clutter
Clutter in the rooms of your home make the rooms seem smaller and distract potential buyers. In addition, clutter in your yard is unattractive and will discourage home buyers.
2. Simple decoration is best
Wherever possible, it’s best to keep your décor simple. Basic furniture with matching accents allows home owners to visualize their own furniture and personal style.
3. First impressions last
The first time potential buyers visit your home they will likely have made a decision already. Keep the lawn well manicured and trim hedges and shrubs. During the winter, shovel your driveway and walking paths so they are clear of snow and ice.
4. Pay attention to details
Because you’ve lived in your home for a while, you may not notice the small problems that buyers are looking for. Be as critical as possible of your own home so that buyers can’t find anything to dislike about your home. Clean the walls, floors, and carpets so your house has a “never-lived-in” feel.
5. Renovations are a great investment
Although it’s not necessary to renovate your home, it can be a great investment that drastically increases the value of your home. Home buyers usually focus special attention on kitchens and bathrooms so even minor renovations can have a huge impact.
6. New paint is refreshing
Painting is inexpensive but can have the biggest impact. Most real estate agents will recommend that you paint with fresh natural tones so that buyers can imagine how they would like to decorate. Bright, tacky colors are distracting.
7. No problem is too minor
Even the smallest issues would be noticed by potential buyers. Fix dripping faucets, faulty fixtures loose cupboards and broken drawers.
8. Tidy up your garage
Again, buyers will be looking at every detail so you should clean out your garage. Garage can be an important selling feature so if you can empty out unnecessary junk you can give the appearance of more room.
9. Consider the ambiance
Ultimately, you want your house to feel as much like a home as possible. Make sure your home is inviting so that potential buyers feel comfortable immediately. Light scented candles to create an appealing smell and always ensure that your home is as well lit as possible.
10. Cleanliness is key
You should thoroughly clean your home, especially kitchens and bathrooms. If your house sparkles, buyers will be impressed. Buyers are likely to be critical about cleanliness and it’s an easy problem to avoid.
11. Check your appliances
Obviously, appliances are usually sold with the house and buyers might be disappointed if they’re not in good working order. Consider hiring a repairman if your refrigerator, dishwasher or other appliances are not working.
12. Get into the nooks and crannies
We might not always dust our windowsills or organize our crawlspace but taking the extra time to make sure every aspect of your house is beyond reproach will go a long way to selling your home and increasing its value.
13. It’s not all about the inside
A dirty, cluttered yard with unkempt lawn and shrubbery can be a major turn off. Tend to your yard and consider your outdoor décor. If necessary, consider painting the exterior of your home or at least the trim.
14. Make them feel at home
Small details like towels in the bathroom or pleasant music in the background can make your house feel like your buyer’s home. Avoid loud, disturbing music or television sounds so that they are focused on your home and not unnecessary distractions.
15. Space, space, and more space
Creating even the appearance of space sells homes. Store excess furniture and trinkets out of sight so that rooms look bigger. Home buyers want space in every aspect of their new home: big bedrooms, spacious living rooms, and lots of storage. Cleaning out your home can give them the space they’re looking for.
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Despite a lengthy and heated debate regarding short-term vacation rentals, a large group of residents were given an overview of the new Maui bed-and-breakfast (B&B) ordinance at the Hannibal Tavares Community Center in Pukalani on March 4th. In recent years, the short-term vacation rental issue has been highly controversial in Maui County for both residents and elected officials.
In 2007, the county started enforcing regulations on transient vacation rentals including B&Bs. Months of contentious debate and discussion followed with residents and elected officials that fell on either side of the issue. However, this January the B&B ordinance was finally signed into law by Mayor Charmaine Tavares thereby clarifying regulations and simplifying the process by which B&B permits were awarded in the county.
Wednesday evening’s meeting was co-sponsored by Maui Vacation Rental Association Board Member Tim Croly and Maui County Planning Director Jeff Hunt. This forum was designed to provide residents with the basic details of the new ordinance as well as an opportunity to discuss the merits of the law and the new permitting regulations. Furthermore, the meeting was open to questions from residents and several “break out” sessions were held in order to allow residents to address their concerns about B&Bs, farm plans, and agricultural special use or conditional permits.
In an attempt to highlight the position of the Maui Vacation Rental Association, Mr. Croly identified the goals of his organization and hoped that homeowners would see their opportunity to participate in and benefit from tourism. As of late, many residents have seen his rental association as somewhat aggressive, but Mr. Croly assured residents in attendance that the Maui Vacation Rental Association is determined to work together with the local government and the public to find common ground and institute laws that benefit the entire community. Moreover, Mr. Croly assured residents that his organization is fully supportive of the new ordinance and the proactive steps taken to develop these new regulations.
Speaking for the Maui County Planning office, Director Jeff Hunt also supported the new ordinance. In addition, he applauded the co-sponsored form as it showed that the community was coming together to resolve the ongoing issues of short-term vacation rentals. Mr. Hunt continued by detailing the criteria of the new B&B ordinance and permitting process and expressed contentment with the new streamlined process.
Maui County’s B&B legislation dates back to 1997 and Mr. Hunt discussed the changes that had been seen in conditional permitting which has been the major point of contention for many residents. The new law covers a number of requirements including a provision that only two detached single-family dwelling units can provide overnight accommodations regardless of the number of legal units on a property. Furthermore, the new law requires that property owners live on-site in order to protect the character of neighborhoods. Other mandates include a maximum of 400 permits and a permitting process that is more straightforward.
Still the streamlined permitting process does appear to have some limitations. Namely, agricultural lands require a special-use permit and must follow both state and county regulations. Also, in an attempt to protect neighbors they have the opportunity to object to these permits. Should 30 percent of neighbors within 500 feet of the property object to the permit or if another B&B exists within these limits, the permit will be denied. Hāna residents will notice further restrictions. B&Bs with more than 3 bedrooms will not be approved.
Mr. Hunt admitted that this process will be frustrating to some applicants. There are mounting applications for permits and those wishing to obtain a permit will be greeted on a first come, first serve basis. His office is facing a huge backlog and the process is expected to take some time. In order to speed up the process, Mr. Hunt highlighted a few details of the permitting process to help potential applicants. First, applicants should post a notice sign on the property five days before submitting the application, letters should be sent to neighbors within 500 feet of the property allowing for a 45 day comment period, house rules should be posted outlining quiet areas and parking regulations, and breakfast must be served.
The permitting process may be tedious and difficult for some applicants but it is important to respect the rights of all Maui residents. Applicants should be careful to review their applications as incomplete applications just bog the system and slow the process for others. The new ordinance is designed to represent fairness and a balanced system for all.
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